If you need to take out student loans, federal loans should be your first option. Our Borrowing for College guide explains the terms, options and process for applying for federal student loans.

Parents may take out PLUS loans to pay for their child’s undergraduate education. Review our PLUS Loan Pointers before you apply.

If you still fall short of funding all your college costs, you may turn to private student loans as a last resort. Consider our tips about private student loans to learn how they differ from federal education loans.

You can also find additional Loan Resources, a comprehensive collection of forms, brochures, and links for staying informed and in control of your student loans.